What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
examination
Example
I have an important examination tomorrow that covers everything we learned this semester. [examination: noun]
Example
The detective conducted a careful examination of the crime scene to gather evidence. [examination: noun]
Example
The doctor performed a routine examination to check my overall health. [examination: noun]
scrutiny
Example
The proposal is under scrutiny by the board of directors to determine its feasibility. [scrutiny: noun]
Example
The journalist subjected the politician's statements to intense scrutiny to verify their accuracy. [scrutiny: noun]
Example
The police conducted a thorough scrutiny of the suspect's background to gather evidence. [scrutiny: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Examination is more commonly used than scrutiny in everyday language, especially in academic or medical settings. Scrutiny is more commonly used in professional or formal contexts, such as journalism, politics, and law enforcement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between examination and scrutiny?
Examination is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while scrutiny can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but often carries a more serious or critical tone.